How can I get rid of ticks in the apartment? - briefly
Thoroughly vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks, then wash bedding in hot water and apply an approved indoor acaricide or diatomaceous earth to remaining hiding spots. Seal entry points and maintain low humidity to prevent re‑infestation.
How can I get rid of ticks in the apartment? - in detail
Ticks can survive in apartments when they hitch a ride on pets, clothing, or infested items. Recognizing the problem early prevents bites and disease transmission.
First, locate the insects. Examine pet bedding, carpets, upholstered furniture, and baseboards. Use a flashlight to spot tiny, dark specks on walls or under furniture. Collect specimens with sticky tape for identification if necessary.
Next, eliminate the current population.
- Vacuum every carpet, rug, and upholstered surface thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
- Wash all bedding, curtains, and removable fabric at 60 °C (140 °F) or higher; dry on high heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Apply a residual acaricide spray formulated for indoor use to cracks, crevices, and baseboards. Follow label directions regarding concentration and ventilation.
- Use a fogger or aerosol “tick bomb” in sealed rooms, allowing the product to settle for the recommended time before re‑entering.
- Sprinkle diatomaceous earth in thin layers on floor edges and under furniture; leave for 48 hours, then vacuum.
If chemical options are unsuitable, consider non‑chemical tactics.
- Raise indoor temperature to 55 °C (131 °F) for several hours using professional heat‑treatment equipment; heat kills all life stages.
- Place infested items in a freezer at –20 °C (–4 °F) for at least 72 hours; prolonged cold exposure is lethal to ticks.
- Deploy essential‑oil–based repellents (e.g., eucalyptus or peppermint) on fabrics; these deter but do not eradicate, so combine with other measures.
Seal entry points to prevent re‑infestation. Install door sweeps, repair torn screens, caulk gaps around pipes and vents, and keep pet coats and shoes stored in sealed containers.
When the infestation is extensive or persists after self‑treatment, contract a licensed pest‑control professional. They can conduct a thorough inspection, apply professional‑grade acaricides, and provide a guarantee for follow‑up visits.
Finally, monitor the environment weekly for at least two months. Use sticky traps near suspected hotspots and repeat vacuuming and laundering cycles. Consistent vigilance ensures that any surviving ticks are detected and removed before they establish a new population.